HVAC vs. Electrician: Train for a Career in the Trades with IBT
Are you interested in a career in the trades? If you would like a hands-on, technical career, with opportunity for growth, a career as an Electrician or HVAC Technician could be a good choice for you. For either of these careers, specialized training is necessary and industry certifications can help get you hired. Since 1965, the Institute of Business and Technology (IBT) of Santa Clara, California, has offered training programs to prepare people for new careers in a short amount of time. Read on to take a closer look at these two trades, so you can determine which career is right for you.
Both electricians and HVAC technicians are in high demand in today’s marketplace. In 2020, the national growth rate for electricians in the United States was 8%, much faster than the average job growth (BLS), while for HVAC Techs, the growth was 4%, as fast as the average (BLS). For both of these careers, this growth indicates there are a range of opportunities for newcomers in the industry. For HVAC Techs, the job growth is not solely tied to new construction, but is often in repair and maintenance of existing refrigeration and HVAC systems- in everything from private homes to large-scale commercial businesses, hospitals to high-tech data centers, server rooms and beyond. HVAC Techs are employed by HVAC companies, mechanical contractors, private business and government entities.
With this growth, it’s no surprise the shortage of qualified workers is already being felt. Employers report that finding HVAC Technicians with computer and electronic skills is especially difficult, and demand for skilled technicians only increases with all the technical developments made to HVAC systems in the last few years. Often, the best job candidates have industry certifications and training from an accredited school; even more competitive are those with on-site experience and a working, technical knowledge of electrical, plumbing, and computer systems.
IBT’s Commercial Refrigeration, Heating, and Air Conditioning training program is designed to train students across the board, so they enter the industry with actual experience working not only with HVAC systems, but with electrical systems and controls. IBT’s program provides instruction from industry professionals combined with hands-on technical training. IBT is accredited by both the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Accrediting Council on Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Students at IBT graduate from the HVAC program prepared to sit for the EPA ESCO certification exam, as well as the OSHA 10, the R-410A, and HVAC Excellence certifications.
Likewise, IBT’s Electrician training program is designed to prepare graduates for the realities of actual employment. At IBT, students learn electrical code, wiring installation, conduit bending, motors and transformer systems, as well as manual and electric industrial controls, and more. Just like the HVAC program, the Electrician program at IBT is taught by industry professionals, in a hands-on environment, so students learn the skills they need for entry-level positions in the field. Graduates of IBT’s program are capable of working in residential and industrial maintenance environments, and executing new construction electrical work.
Whichever you choose, training for a career as an Electrician or as an HVAC Tech can put you on the path towards a steady future. Consider carefully your options, and give our friendly Admissions Representatives a call at 800-915-3562 to talk it through. At IBT, our staff is always available to future, present, and past students, to support you, guide you, and do everything we can to help you get on your way to a rewarding future. Why wait any longer to get started in a rewarding career in the trades?
Make it happen with training from IBT!